top of page

What Is Judo?

"Judo is the way to the most effective use of both
physical and spiritual strength."

Jigoro Kano

The Gentle Way

What Is Judo?

Judo is a Japanese sport and Kodokan judo was first established in Japan in 1882 by Professor Jigorō Kanō. The term judo translates to "the gentle way": "ju" meaning "gentle" and "do" meaning "the way". Kodokan is translated "a school for studying the way", "the way" being the concept of life itself.

Judo Moral Code

Judo develops self-discipline and respect for oneself and others. It provides the means for learning self-confidence, improves concentration and leadership skills, as well as developing physical coordination, strength, power, and flexibility. Judo develops complete body control, fine balance, and fast reflexive action. Above all, it develops a sharp reacting mind well-coordinated with the same kind of body. Judo training also gives a person an effective self-defence system if the need arises.

Politeness

Courage

Sincerity

Self-Control

Honour

Modesty

Friendship

Respect

The Systems of Judo

Professor Kanō defined the two principles of Kodokan Judo as “Maximum Efficiency with Minimum Effort” or Seiryoku-Zenyo and “Mutual Welfare and Benefit” or Jita-Kyoei. He said that “physical education should train the body to be strong, healthy and useful in actual life and also make a contribution to the culture of the mind.” His system of Judo is just that.

The Sport

Judo is best known for its spectacular throwing techniques but it also involves considerable grappling on the ground. Judo emphasises safety but is a full body physical activity for top conditioning and is learned on special mats for safety.

Grassroots

Everyone knows that fitness is good for you. But at Edinburgh Judo, we make it fun — and we’ll help you find a routine that works for your lifestyle and personal goals. Whether you’re new or a seasoned veteran, we’ve got what you need. As a leading Judo Club, we were founded to be a place where anyone can come and join in on the fun. We want you to leave feeling better than ever. Showing up can be the hardest part. Let us take care of the rest.

Competing

Judo was introduced to the Olympic Games for men in Tokyo in 1964 and became an Olympic Sport for women in 1992 in Barcelona. Over the years judo has developed and now millions of people practice judo all over the word. Many countries have won Olympic medals, including Great Britain, however Great Britain still hasn’t won a GOLD Olympic medal for judo... Could an Edinburgh Judo Club member be the first? Let’s hope so!!!

bottom of page